The 1958 Royal Medal awarded to physiologist Alan Lloyd Hodgkin for his distinguished work on the mechanism of excitation and conduction in nerves and muscle. The Royal Medal, also known as The Queen's Medal, is awarded each year by the Royal Society. From 1826 until 1965, 2 medals were awarded annually. Currently, 3 medals are given out each year; 2 for the ''most important contributions to the advancement of natural knowledge'', and one for ''distinguished contributions in the applied sciences''. Medal is made of silver-gilt and features the relief portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, with her name and the year 1952 in Roman numerals (the year in which she began her reign). Also framing her portrait are the words: ''SOC: REG: LOND: PATRONA''. Verso features a relief portrait of Isaac Newton, 2 diagrams of the solar system and the words, ''REGINAE MUNIFICENTIA ARBITRIO SOCIETATIS'', which mentions generosity and society. Engraved on rim is the title, ''PROFESSOR ALAN L. HODGKIN, F.R.S., 1958''. Medal is housed in red box with yellow felt bottom and white satin lining stamped with the arms of the Royal Mint. Box measures 4.75'' x 4.75'' x 0.75''. Medal measures 7.3 cm or 2.9'' in diameter and weighs 294 g or 10.4 oz. Spots of discoloration. Overall very good condition. With an LOA from the daughter of Dr. Alan Hodgkin.